Paul di Resta was hard at work yesterday at the Circuit Paul Ricard, pounding around the French track as he got acquainted with his United Autosports Ligier JS P217.

As he awaits Williams' decision on its 2018 driver line-up, the Scot joined Lando Norris in Southern France as the pair kicked-off their preparation for next January's Daytona 24 Hours.

As a reminder, Fernando Alonso will also join Zak Brown and Richard Dean's United Autosports outfit for the Rolex 24.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.

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